Situated in the heart of Burgundy, the town of Autun proudly reveals the impressive remains of its glorious past as Augustodunum, a thriving Roman town. The Roman sites of Autun are a tangible testimony to the architectural ingenuity and cultural heritage of Gallo-Roman Antiquity.
The Roman Theater: A Witness to Cultural Life
When exploring Autun, the Roman Theater stands as an impressive centerpiece of the Roman era. Built in the 1st century, this theater could accommodate up to 16,000 spectators and testifies to the vitality of cultural life in Augustodunum. The perfectly preserved stands and imposing stage offer a captivating view of how the Romans celebrated theater and spectacle.
The Vestiges of the Ramparts and the Porte d’Arroux: A Military Heritage
The Romans were also masters in the art of fortification, and Autun is a prime example. The remains of the Roman walls surrounding the city bear witness to the strategic importance of Augustodunum. The Porte d'Arroux, one of the main entrances to the city, with its imposing towers, offers a glimpse of the sophisticated defense system put in place to protect the city and its inhabitants.
The Temple of Janus: A Rare Evidence of Antiquity
Among the Roman treasures of Autun is the Temple of Janus, a unique monument of its kind. Built in the 3rd century, it is the only temple with four doors still existing in France. Although partially in ruins, this temple bears witness to Roman architectural ingenuity. The four doors symbolize the deities to whom the temple was dedicated, providing a direct connection with the spirituality of antiquity.
The ancient enclosure of Autun - Witness to the central past of Augustodunum
The ancient wall of Autun – one of the best preserved in Roman Gaul – was designed under the emperor Augustus, founder of the city, at the end of the 1st century BC. It is one of the most impressive monuments of the Roman Empire, since it extends over 6 kilometers, covering more than 200 hectares, with an average height of thirteen meters and a thickness of two and a half meters. These figures, at the time dizzying, were justified by the importance of Augustodunum, then capital of Gaul. A walk along the walls will allow you to realize the extent of the renovation work currently underway.
The Roman Bridge over the Arroux: A Path to the Past
The Roman Bridge over the Arroux River is another remarkable achievement of Roman engineering. Although partially rebuilt over the centuries, this bridge offers insight into how the Romans built durable infrastructure to facilitate trade and travel. Walking across this bridge is a bit like stepping back in time and following the paths taken by Roman travelers.
The Roman sites of Autun are a real window onto Gallo-Roman Antiquity, offering visitors an immersive experience in the daily life and grandeur of the city of Augustodunum. From the theaters to the thermal baths, from the ramparts to the Arroux gate, each site tells a unique story of Roman civilization. Autun, with its well-preserved remains, is positioned as a must-see for history buffs and lovers of ancient culture.
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